Lemon Bergamot

Monarda citriodora

annual0.6×1 mzone 5–9light shade

Profile

Family: Lamiaceae
Habit: annual
Height: 0.6 m
Spread: 1 m
Growth: fast
Lifespan: 2 years
First yield: after 1 year
Hardiness: zone 5–9
Shade tolerance: light shade
Soil: Sand, Silt, Loam
Soil moisture: dry – very wet
pH: 5.3 – 8.6
Synonyms: Lemon mint, Lemon bee balm

scented

Flowering & harvest

	J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
Flowering
Leaf harvest

Times apply to the northern hemisphere in a temperate climate and shift with altitude and cultivar.

Uses

Edible5 of 10

Medicinal5 of 10

Other uses4 of 10

Growing

Monarda citriodora thrives in full sun with well-drained, moist soil. It tolerates dry soil and prefers sandy to loamy textures with a slightly acidic to alkaline pH. The plant is drought tolerant once established and benefits from occasional watering. Propagation is by seed, which germinates quickly in spring. Deadhead flowers to prolong blooming and divide clumps every few years to maintain vigor. Avoid overcrowding to reduce powdery mildew risk.

⚠️ Hazards

Toxicity: slightly toxic

This is no substitute for expert identification. When in doubt, do not eat it.

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